US authorities are investigating whether major TV networks violated antitrust laws by boycotting coverage of the White House following a Trump administration decision to revoke press credentials. The probe targets ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC and Fox News, which suspended coverage in solidarity with CNN, Politico and MS NOW after the White House barred them from the building.
The Justice Department said group boycotts among commercial competitors could violate the Sherman Act, citing the networks' decision to stop covering the president after the administration barred three outlets from the White House. The investigation follows weeks of tension between the Trump administration and major news organizations, with the White House claiming coverage was a 'privilege - not a right' and outlets alleging the exclusions violated the First Amendment.
A federal judge ordered the administration to restore access for the banned journalists, but disputes over specific events and pool assignments continued. Critics argue the government should not use antitrust investigations to intimidate news outlets defending press access, highlighting ongoing concerns about the administration's actions.
The White House reinstated credentials for the banned journalists after a court order, but conflicts over access to specific events and pool assignments remain unresolved, underscoring the ongoing legal and logistical challenges in maintaining press coverage of the president.